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Skeleton Crew is a chilling and diverse collection of short stories by Stephen King, first published in 1985. Spanning horror, science fiction, psychological suspense, and the supernatural, the collection showcases King’s mastery of storytelling across a wide range of tones and themes. With over twenty tales, including a novella and several poems, Skeleton Crew reveals both the depth and the range of King’s imagination.

The collection opens with “The Mist,” a powerful novella that blends cosmic horror with intense human drama. Set in a small town trapped in a mysterious, monster-filled fog, the story examines fear, isolation, and the collapse of social order. Other standout stories include “The Monkey,” a terrifying tale about a cursed toy; “Survivor Type,” a shocking account of a surgeon stranded on an island; and “The Jaunt,” a sci-fi narrative with a haunting twist on teleportation.

Many of the stories explore the darker corners of the human psyche, emphasizing King’s ability to create terror not just from external threats, but from inner fears, guilt, and obsession. His characters—often ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances—give each story emotional weight and authenticity. Whether grounded in the everyday or venturing into the surreal, the tales are compelling and memorable.

Skeleton Crew remains a landmark in the horror genre and a must-read for fans of Stephen King. It offers a vivid snapshot of his early storytelling prowess and his unmatched ability to disturb, provoke, and entertain. This collection stands as a testament to King’s belief that the short story is a powerful form for delivering big shocks.